"I don't want to, Mom. I can't!"
I stood with my young daughter under a towering oak, in part for shade and in part to hide. With tears in her eyes, she pleaded to sit out of her soccer scrimmage. Her new teammates were older, more experienced, and worst of all had welcomed her with condescending stares. Intimidation and self-doubt were having a field day.
After much affirmation and encouragement, positive words did not move her forward. A change of belief was needed, so we took a little walk. During that time, the Holy Spirit called to mind scripture we had memorized together. While I affirmed that her feelings were real, I reminded her of what is true.
The truth is:
"...the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." (1 John 4:4) You are God's kid and an overcomer. "So do not fear, for [God is] with you; do not be dismayed, for [He is] your God. [He] will strengthen you and help you..." (Isaiah 41:10) Do you remember how God's "perfect love casts out fear?" (1 John 4:18)
Scripture says, "His power is made perfect in [your] weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9) and you "can do all things through Christ who strengthens [you]." (Philippians 4:13)
To my amazement, my girl said she knew what to do and walked right back into the game. She ended up playing an integral role and leaving the soccer field with a transformed perspective of herself and her teammates.
The Holy Spirit reminded me of truth we have memorized and used it to reorient my daughter’s thinking. Storing up God's Word (Psalm 119:11) gave the Holy Spirit words to call to my mind that empowered her.
"The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple." (Psalm 119:30) His Word is alive and active (Hebrews 4:12) and does not return void (Isaiah 55:11). There is power in memorizing scripture.
By cherishing His Word, God guides you into a way of life that is genuinely good and beautiful. You can do this! Recall what is true and enjoy the light that shines on your path as you memorize scripture.
Simple tips for memorizing scripture:
1. Pray for the desire and grace to memorize scripture.
2. Take your verse personally. Storing up God’s Word is about interacting with Him, not a religious should.
3. Tell someone. Accountability or memorizing with a friend is a huge help!
4. Start with a short verse. Choose a translation that strikes you. (www.BibleHub.com)
5. Write the verse and carry it with you. Post it places where you will notice it throughout your day.
6. Repeat, repeat, repeat in writing and aloud. Try writing your verse, then tracing it multiple times in assorted colors. Your verse may even be put to music on YouTube. There are countless ways to rehearse your verse!
Prayer:
Father God, please give me life according to Your Word! Help me to fill my mind and heart with scripture. They are my delight and my counselors. In Jesus Christ’s name, I pray. Amen.